Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is dynamic, not only in its array of housing options but also in its communities. Students have numerous alternatives right at their feet. Both student accommodations and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount up to £5.25 daily, thus I opted to walk shorter routes instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have made traveling to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, extending to zones outside of Central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses in Central London are a result of its numerous key attractions. Fortunately, attending university with a companion enabled us to cohabitate and significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to encounter in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores nearby, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural diversity, presenting an array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from home within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases a wealth of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home, appreciate the variety and richness of London’s housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.